Report: Patriots sign defense end Andre Carter

According to various reports, the New England Patriots signed defensive end Andre Carter, helping to boost a defense that has been hit hard with injuries.

Carter, 34, was the Patriots’ best pass rusher in 2011, totaling 10 sacks in 14 games before a quad injury ended his season. He left after the season and signed with Oakland, recording 2.5 sacks last year. He hasn’t played this year.

The signing was reported by ESPN, but the team had not made any official statement regarding the transaction.